Mike James: "Everyone Wants Me to Play Until I'm 40"

In the opening game against the Dominican Republic, Mike James showcased an impressive performance with 15 points, 13 assists, and 5 rebounds, contributing to the USA's narrow 82-81 victory. A similar close match against Mexico, ending 92-91, saw Mike James once again play a pivotal role for the USA, tallying 19 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals.

"It's fun. Honestly, I'm having fun," he told Basketball Sphere. "I'm just trying to enjoy it, get two wins, and just perform as best as I can, not to think too much about it, even though it's very serious. I'm just trying to enjoy it. Cool," he commented to Basketball Sphere. "I think, first of all, the arena, the way it was set up, everything was really great. Honestly, we had a good time. There was a good atmosphere. The game was good, which also contributes to the atmosphere. And I think we gave the crowd, and everyone watching, something interesting to watch, and we're happy to have won. And then, you know, obviously, these two, Jean Montero and Andrés Feliz, are great players, and they have a good future ahead of them. Well after I'm still active, so... (laughs)."

Mike James will turn 36 in August, and inevitably, the end of his career is approaching.

"Staying in shape isn't the hardest thing. It's just the time away. Honestly, going through a long season, I think that's the hardest thing right now. But I would say all my teammates and everyone around me wants me to play until I'm forty. I don't think I'll go that far, but I'm leaving the door open for now. But I think this is the end."